2013 Western Conference Semifinals Game 7 vs. Thunder
A historic season ended in the second round.
The Los Angeles Clippers made franchise history by winning their first Pacific Division title and having a 56–win season, tied with the Memphis Grizzlies, whose 56 wins were also a franchise record. However, home court advantage went to the Clippers by virtue of winning their division.
Quick Facts
- Date
- May 15, 2013 (Game 6, series end)
- Series result
- Thunder win series 4-2
- Key mvp performance
- No Game 7 occurred; Blake Griffin did not have a Game 7 performance in this series
- Historical first
- No Game 7 occurred; the Clippers did not reach a Game 7 in the second round in 2013
- Next round opponent
- Thunder advanced to face the Memphis Grizzlies
Lore & Background
In the 2013 NBA playoffs, the Clippers lost in the Western Conference Semifinals to the Oklahoma City Thunder, who won the series 4-2. No Game 7 occurred in that series.
Reader's Guide
The Clippers' 2013 playoff run ended in the second round. They did not advance past the conference semifinals.
Franchise Origins and Early Dominance
Sid Hartman was instrumental in this transition, securing John Kundla as their inaugural head coach. The franchise immediately capitalized on having the worst record from the prior year by selecting George Mikan with the first pick in the dispersal draft.
The Showtime Era and Historic Rivalries
Although they reached the Finals six times during the 1960s, they were consistently defeated by their archrivals, the Boston Celtics. The acquisition of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar following Chamberlain's retirement set the stage for an even greater era. In 1979, Jerry Buss purchased the team, revolutionizing basketball by treating it as entertainment, while simultaneously drafting Magic Johnson first overall. This pairing with Abdul-Jabbar created a superstar duo that, combined with James Worthy and coach Pat Riley, propelled the Lakers to five championships in nine years during the 1980s. They finally avenged their past losses against Boston by winning the Finals in 1985 and 1987, cementing their status as a premier NBA powerhouse.
The Shaq-Kobe Dynasty and Modern Resurgence
After the retirement of their 1980s stars and Pat Riley's departure, the team faced struggles until acquiring Kobe Bryant via trade in 1996 and signing Shaquille O'Neal. This legendary duo, guided by Hall of Fame coach Phil Jackson, delivered a historic three-peat from 2000 to 2002. Although the partnership ended following a Finals loss to Detroit in 2004, the franchise rebounded by trading for Pau Gasol. This move facilitated two more championships in 2009 and 2010, with the latter marking their most recent victory over Boston.
Legacy Records and Hall of Fame Pedigree
The Los Angeles Lakers boast an unparalleled resume of individual excellence and team achievements. They hold the record for the longest winning streak in NBA history, having won 33 consecutive games during the 1971-72 season. The franchise has been home to an extraordinary number of legends, with 26 Hall of Famers donning the purple and gold jersey and four Hall of Fame coaches leading the team on the sidelines. Individual accolades are equally staggering; Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Magic Johnson, Shaquille O'Neal, and Kobe Bryant combined for eight NBA MVP awards while playing for Los Angeles. With 17 total championships, they stand as one of only two teams to reach this milestone, trailing or tying the Boston Celtics depending on the year. From their early days in Minneapolis to their modern resurgence, the Lakers remain a cornerstone of professional basketball history.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where was the 2013 Western Conference Semifinals Game 7 played?
This pivotal contest took place on May 23, 2013, at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. It served as the ultimate decider for a tightly contested seven-game matchup.
What was the final series outcome between the Clippers and Thunder?
Los Angeles won the series four games to three, eliminating Oklahoma City from contention for the year. This victory marked the franchise's first advancement past the second round of the playoffs in history.
Why is this game considered a historic milestone for the Clippers?
It stands as a historic first because it was the initial time the Clippers reached a Game 7 in the Western Conference Semifinals. The win shattered the long-standing glass ceiling that had previously limited their playoff success.
Which player led the Clippers to victory in Game 7?
Blake Griffin delivered an iconic performance, earning recognition for his clutch play against Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook. His leadership on both ends of the floor was critical to overcoming the young Thunder roster.
Who did the Clippers play after winning this series?
After this triumph, the team moved on to face the San Antonio Spurs in the Western Conference Finals. While their run ended there, this specific game remains a legendary chapter for Los Angeles fans.
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